Bridging World's

5

Sage

The number of times I've been surprised today is countless, all thanks to my husband deciding to shower me with unexpected gestures.

**5 hours ago...**

I woke up to the sound of my alarm, letting out a quiet groan. Still feeling exhausted, I reluctantly got up and sat on the bed, zoning out for a few minutes.

It was 5 AM when my zoning-out session was interrupted by soft snores. I glanced to my left and saw Killian sleeping soundly. My mouth hung open; this was the first time I'd seen him asleep beside me.

His brown hair was messily spread across his forehead, his face soft and relaxed, a stark contrast to the cold demeanor I was used to. His chiseled jawline looked sharp enough to cut through my fingers. One thing was certain: he was incredibly handsome.

I shook off my thoughts and slowly crept out of bed, trying not to wake him. Why was he still sleeping? Was he unwell? Should I tell Mom? I glanced at him once more, deciding it was best not to get involved in his affairs.

I went down to the kitchen and started preparing breakfast. Mom had said that her father-in-law was Danish and her mother-in-law was Indian, so our household embraced many Indian traditions. One such tradition required the daughter-in-law to cook for the family for the first nine months of marriage. At the end of this period, a charitable event was held, where food prepared by the daughter-in-law was served to the needy.

My mom and Aunt Sandra had followed this tradition, and now it was my turn. The past week had been challenging with the helpers on leave, but they were back today, which would make my tasks easier.

I quickly prepared a baked vegetable frittata, ham and cheese omelette, and baked beans, accompanied by berry smoothies and coffee. After setting the table, I hurried upstairs to find the bed empty.

I sighed; this was going to be an awkward morning. Hearing the shower running, I selected my clothes for the day and made a call to the farmer who supplied milk, butter, and dairy products for the café. I insisted on using organic ingredients for all my dishes, never compromising on quality.

As I finished the call, the bathroom door opened, and Killian emerged, dressed in shorts and a white t-shirt. I'd never seen him so casual before. I didn't realize I was staring until he cleared his throat and said, "You can use the bathroom now." I flushed with embarrassment at being caught ogling him.

Wait a minute... Did he really just speak to me? This was a first. "Thank you," I muttered, hurrying into the bathroom.

I quickly took care of my business and emerged to find him sitting in a one-seater, looking devilishly handsome as he typed on his phone. Running my hands through my partially wet hair, I applied moisturizer, sunscreen, and lip balm, leaving my hair loose.

As I turned to pick up my phone, I noticed he was staring at me. Panic set in. What was going on? Why was he looking at me like that?

"Uh, is there anything I can help you with?" I asked nervously.

My words seemed to snap him out of his reverie. He looked equally shocked for staring. Clearing his throat, he rubbed the back of his neck and replied, "No," before diverting his attention back to his phone.

I nodded and left the room. As usual, everyone was seated at the dining table. I greeted them and took my usual seat.

Killian joined us a few minutes later, sitting beside me as he had the day before. "Wow, brother, what a miracle it is for you to join us for breakfast," Violet remarked sarcastically, making everyone chuckle except for Mom and Kayla.

I saw Killian roll his eyes. "Well, I had to remind you all what I look like in daylight!" Everyone chuckled, and Violet gave her brother a thumbs up.

He stuck out his tongue at her, and she rolled her eyes. For the third time today, I was shocked by his behavior. I never thought I'd see the day when Killian behaved like a child.

He seemed to notice my shock and quickly composed himself, his expressionless mask returning.

As we ate, Kayla grunted. "Ew, what is this? Is that ham in the egg?" she asked, looking disgusted. "Yes, it is," I replied.

"I hate ham. Can't you ask if we'd eat something before cooking it?" she seethed, glaring at me.

"Oh... I didn't know..." I began, but was interrupted, "If you don't like it, eat the other dishes. Sage will cook how she wants to, and we all do not have any problem. The food is delicious. Be grateful that someone is cooking for you, Kayla. If I hear you complain one more time, you'll be cooking for yourself hereafter," Killian's voice was stern, filled with warning.

My mouth hung open at his defense of me. Violet and Fredrick snickered at Kayla, who was now red with anger but kept quiet and continued eating.

Mom was smiling, her eyes shining with happiness and pride. Dad and Uncle were shocked but soon let out small smiles and resumed eating.

I was baffled. Had he hit his head somewhere? What should I make of all this? His sudden change was confusing yet somewhat exciting.

I hurried toward the car after breakfast, the awkwardness in the house compelling me to make a swift exit.

As I unlocked the car and was about to get in, I heard his voice. "Sage!" I sucked in a sharp breath and turned to face him.

He walked towards me, stopping a couple of feet away. "Uh, are you heading to work?" he asked. I nodded, making an effort to keep my expression neutral.

His ears turned red, and I fought to suppress a smile. "Uh, well, drive safe," he said, his blue eyes twinkling with an emotion I couldn't quite identify. His usual expressionless mask returned as he turned and walked towards his car.

"Killian..." I called out, causing him to halt and turn back to me. "Thank you," I said. His eyebrows furrowed in confusion before his face softened with realization; he understood I was thanking him for his defense during breakfast.

He nodded. "You too, drive safe," I told him before getting into my car and driving towards the café.

The whole ride, I couldn’t help but smile like an idiot. The change in him was shocking yet beautiful.

***********************************

Another update!!

Killian is such a cutie pie 😂

I am so excited for the upcoming chapters.

Please vote and comment

Big Love,
❤️